June 23, 2006
ORLANDO - UCF men's basketball head coach Kirk Speraw announced on Friday that center Will Bakanowsky has elected to not use his final year of eligibility in 2006-07. Bakanowsky redshirted during the 2005-06 campaign for precautionary reasons due to concussions.
A two-time conference all-academic selection, Bakanowsky earned his degree from UCF in May.
"We are disappointed for Will that he will not be able compete and finish his career this season," said Speraw. "Will was a valuable member of our program and was a key contributor on our two NCAA Tournament teams. Off of the court, he was a great student and we wish him the very best."
A native of Gibbsboro, N.J., Bakanowsky made 26 starts at center as a junior during the 2004-05 season and averaged 6.4 points and 4.3 rebounds. In his final collegiate contest, he scored 15 points and added seven rebounds against Connecticut at the 2005 NCAA Tournament.
Bakanowsky was a member of some of the most successful teams in UCF history. During his three years, the Golden Knights won 70 games and made a pair of trips to the NCAA Tournament. Bakanowsky is one of six Golden Knights to play in two NCAA Tournament contests.
"I enjoyed my time at UCF and am thankful for the opportunity that coach Speraw and the staff provided me with," said Bakanowsky. "Although I am disappointed that I will not be able to finish my college basketball career, I am excited about starting a new chapter in my life."
The Golden Knights return eight letterwinners from last season's squad that posted a 14-15 overall and 7-7 Conference USA mark. UCF finished fifth in its inaugural season in the league.